San Jose, CA asked in Bankruptcy and Workers' Compensation for Ohio

Q: Ohio Worker's Compensation Tax as an Employer

I am being pursued by a collection for Ohio worker's compensation taxes I owed as a small business (unincorporated) owner from 1992. My business went bankrupt in 1992, and I filed bankruptcy and my taxes were discharged (but I don't have proof worker's compensation was) in 1996. It's been 28 years - can I still be held liable? The amount they want to collect is insane. I never heard a thing after my bankruptcy was discharged; why now? I am currently a 100% disabled veteran and on social security disability - there is no way I can pay this debt.

1 Lawyer Answer
James Monast
James Monast
Answered
  • Workers' Compensation Lawyer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Licensed in Ohio

A: The BWC has an Adjudication Committee (at least they used to years ago when I worked there) where you can present your situation. It used to come up when employers were non-complying (I.e., hadn't had premiums) or coverage had lapsed for a few days and then got hit with a huge penalty. They often knocked down the liability considerably or even altogether. I'd suggest contacting employer services at the BWC; you should be able to find contact info on the BWC website, bwc.ohio.gov

Timothy Denison and Tim Akpinar agree with this answer

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